NANOCONSTRUCTS AND NANOPARTICLE-MEDIATED DELIVERY OF IMMUNOGENIC CELL DEATH INDUCERS FOR ENHANCING CANCER IMMUNOTHERAPY

Smart overview of the Invention

Nanoconstructs are innovative compositions that utilize nanoparticles to enhance cancer immunotherapy. These nanoparticles are designed to encapsulate therapeutic agents, particularly immunogenic cell death (ICD) inducers, while being coated with immunoadjuvants like adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The goal is to improve the effectiveness of cancer treatments by leveraging the body's immune response against tumors.

Technical Composition

The nanoconstructs typically consist of a nanoparticle made from materials such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) or liposomes. These particles can be modified with various polyphenol compounds that serve as immunoadjuvants. The encapsulated therapeutic agents may include well-known chemotherapeutic drugs, which are known to induce ICD, thereby stimulating a stronger immune response against cancerous cells.

Mechanism of Action

ICD inducers trigger a specific form of cancer cell death that activates dendritic cells and promotes tumor-specific T cell immunity. This process involves the release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), which act as signals to enhance the immune system's recognition of tumor cells. By using nanoconstructs that effectively deliver these inducers, the aim is to increase the antigenicity of tumor cells and recruit more immune cells to the site of the tumor.

Combination Therapies

The described methods also allow for combination therapies, where the nanoconstructs can be administered alongside other immunotherapeutic agents, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors. These combinations can be administered sequentially or together, potentially improving overall treatment efficacy by priming the immune system before or after exposure to additional therapies.

Clinical Applications

The application provides methods for treating cancer by administering these nanoconstructs through various routes, including subcutaneous and intravenous options. The ultimate goal is to enhance anti-tumor immune responses specifically at targeted sites, such as solid tumors, thereby improving patient outcomes in cancer therapy.